For immediate release: April 28, 2008

                        Contact: Pamela A. Mathis (623)580-5509 or (602)402-7690

                                       Ken Shaver (623)580-5578

 

 

CONGRESS – To reduce the threat of wildfires, excess brush that could cause fire hazards will be reduced in controlled burns by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Congress Fire Department from May 2-16, 2008.

 

Local homeowners had proactively cleared their land of excess brush and provided these piles to fire officials for proper disposal. Residents and motorists are advised that these controlled or prescribed burns will be seen just north of Congress off of Highway 89, to the west. Residents should expect some light smoke in the area during the burn operation.

 

BLM fire personnel will ignite the piles when weather and vegetation conditions allow for the safest burning. After ignition, the piles are expected to burn down quickly, but may smolder for a few days.  Smoke should not linger.  Fire crews will continue to monitor conditions following all prescribed burn activities.

 

The BLM greatly appreciates the regional cooperation in protecting our public lands by helping to prevent wildfires.  As temperatures increase in the coming months,  the Bureau of Land Management will likely impose fire restrictions and smoking bans on public lands. These restrictions are described in a recorded message by calling toll free 1-877-864-6985. Up to date information is maintained by an interagency team of federal, state and local land management agencies. Current fire restriction information can also be found online at www.azfireinfo.com or http://gacc.nifc.gov/swcc/information/firerestrictions 

 

 

To report a wildfire call (800) 309-7081

- BLM -